God’s decision to send Jesus to live on earth makes clear the importance of personal relationships to God. No e-mails from on high— our God walks side-by-side, relates to people face-to-face, and chooses to be a servant rather than be served. Perhaps this is the preacher found washing dishes in the kitchen or emptying the restroom trash after giving the sermon, discussing with fellow workers how to live.

You can spot other leaders who look to Jesus as an example, in part, by the following characteristics:

They break down barriers
Consistently, Jesus broke the written and unwritten laws of oppressive relationships. He praised women who wanted to sit and learn, and healed women bold enough to engage his questions. He shattered walls between Jew and Greek, tax collector and fisherman, rich and poor. Jesus ensured everyone a place at the table, including the one who would betray him. Leaders following Jesus’ footsteps dissect organizational patterns to see which deny people the chance to use all of their God-given gifts. Their relationships have more to do with grace than with judgment, invitation than condemnation. They know we are all on a journey.

Their prayers lead to action
“Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven,” we pray. But the world is unjust and violent. When we pray for peace, God often answers with opportunities to act for peace. The world, our country, and our government beg for moral guidance. Through his followers, Jesus offers a world that works for everyone. Christ-led leaders act to create a world that works for everyone, praying for peace and justice and speaking clearly and loudly on the side of the poor, the captives and the oppressed.

They look beyond themselves
“Go into all the world,” Jesus said. Christ-centered leaders’ perspectives take into account global ramifications. One’s perceptions are different when aware of the persecution of fellow Christians, the joyful congregations that meet under trees, and the abundant sharing of God’s people. They know that being missional means joining God’s work both around them and around the world.